Acadia 11.5

Great Kayak that we bought many years ago. Perception has discontinued it but you may be able to find a used one. It's stable and tracks well. This kayak also can take a beating. We've paddled all over, like to explore and sometimes have to find ourselves in low water going over logs, rocks, etc. The kayak has held up. The seats aren't that comfortable and since we were out for 3- 4 hour stretches, we recently purchased gel seats to put over top of the factory seats and they have made all the difference.

I have owned my Acadia for 4 years now and still love it. I'm a graduate student that works in the salt marshes and barrier islands of Virginia and have used this kayak many times to reach places up small canals or to cross open water between islands. I'm not really comfortable going out with big swells, but in moderate conditions, the Acadia has always gotten me there. My only complaint is the seat, I work in salt water and there has been some weird corrosion around the seat attachments and overall the back rest has broken down a little. I've talked with people about replacing the seat and its going to be a bit difficult. However, I use and abuse this thing and have made many miles in it. Its a little heavier than some of the kayaks I've used, but is still not too hard to drag over the flats when the tide leaves you dry.

I have had the boat for over 3 years now and wondered how I ever paddled Otters and such. This boat is great. It turns nice, keeps solid lines and can actually take a Class 2 whitewater with style (that is after I rolled it and had another go around).

If you have a chance to buy one, do it. They are reliable and affordable and are just a great all around fun.

I've paddled since I was young but this was the first kayak I bought, and though it is recreational I've taken it on conditions and trips worthy of touring kayaks and handled beautifully. a friend of mine has one as well and between the two of us storage capacity accomodated for a 2 day camping/ paddling expedition in which we encountered heavy winds and 3-4' waves, our biggest complaints were some water in the boats which could be eliminated if wed brought skirts. rigging allows for deck bags for those who need more storage, but the rear compartment has enough space for a solo day trip as well. If you want a kayak that handles well in various conditions for beginner to intermediate paddlers, and can be enjoyed by more advanced ones as well, this is a good buy for the price. Enjoy!

This boat moves through the water like an old plow pony. Doesn't turn particularly well for its short length. It's stable but you really gotta kick it to get it to go. Only advantage to the Acadia is you get a rear hatch for stowing things. With the boat's size, you still wouldn't want to carry more than say, lunch, especially if you are a larger person. If you are bargain conscious, or want a cheap spare, just get some float bags and outfit one of the Pungo copy boats (Victory brand, Navigator or Classic 12). Half the price and you'll have more fun.

I took advantage of an L.L. Bean Paddlefest at the beach in front of the Cheasapeake Bay Foundation Headquarters near Annapolis Maryland. I tried a number of boats, including the Acadia 11.5. There were 1.5' swells and the Acadia handled these very nicely. I liked this boat, even took it out for a second spin. Entry and exit were easy. The boat is comfortable and turned on a dime. This seems to be a great boat for anyone wanting to do mostly flatwater, with a little leeway for doing some calmish open water. Without spending some hours in the boat I could not in good faith give it a 10.

Great first kayak. Never having paddled before I was expecting something a lot more difficult. The Acadia handles well, is stable and forgiving. Can't say how well it would handle rough or white water. Not too much of either here in Florida. Tracking might be weak but I blame a lot of that on my inexperience. Kind of a "the faster I go the behinder I get" thing. The cockpit is comfy even after a couple of hours, if I adjust the foot pads so my knees rest firmly under the decking. The boat is nearly identical to my wife's Element 2 which has been reviewed many times. I'm happy.